Chennai, 15 August (H.S.): Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay on Saturday pledged to safeguard Tamil Nadu’s interests and constitutional rights while providing transparent, people-friendly and corruption-free governance.

Delivering his maiden Independence Day address from the ramparts of Fort St George after hoisting the national flag, Vijay said his government would cooperate with the Union government on administrative matters that promoted the welfare of Tamil Nadu. However, it would firmly resist any action that harmed the State’s interests or infringed upon its rights.

Paying tribute to freedom fighters and national heroes, Vijay said the true spirit of freedom could be realised only when people united against oppression and overcame barriers based on caste, religion, language and race.

The Chief Minister said transparency, honesty and truthfulness would guide his administration. Measures had been initiated to prevent public revenue from being diverted into private hands and to eradicate bribery and corruption at every level of governance.

Highlighting major welfare initiatives, Vijay said the Amma Unavagam network and the government’s breakfast scheme were being strengthened and expanded to reach more beneficiaries. Funds had also been allocated for crop-loan waivers and the kuruvai cultivation package to support farmers.

Vijay said 717 TASMAC liquor outlets had been closed and steps were being taken to computerise the corporation’s administration to improve transparency and oversight.

He said the law-and-order situation was being closely monitored and officials had been instructed to treat citizens visiting government offices with dignity and courtesy. People should not be forced to run from one office to another to access services or secure redress for their grievances, he added.

Reiterating his development vision, Vijay said sustained efforts would be made to transform Tamil Nadu into a model State with standards comparable to those of developed countries.

Earlier, Vijay received the ceremonial guard of honour and inspected the police parade from an open jeep. He hoisted the Tricolour at around 8.45 a.m., marking his first Independence Day ceremony as Chief Minister.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman